Starting a Boarding School in India

Boarding schools are not unknown to Indian society. The Gurukuls in ancient India was, in fact, boarding schools. Imparting Skills and Values formed the basic curriculum of Gurukuls. The education was exclusively for the ruling class of society.

The modern boarding schools cater to a certain class in society and focus on overall personality grooming, self-dependence, independence, and responsibility is infused in the students. Today boarding schools are a part of society as they cater to children who live in far-off places where schools are not available. They also provide good infrastructure, better learning environment, and exposure to varied co-curricular activities, better sports facilities and above all individual attention to students. With the changes in the social fabric in India, where both the parents are working, a safe environment for their children becomes very important. Besides this, most families have one or two children and the age gap between the two is wide. In such cases, the boarding schools also provide for the need for siblings.

Looking at the many advantages and the inclination of parents towards boarding schools many edu-prenuers are venturing into establishing these. The points to be considered for starting a boarding school in India is:

Develop a Plan of Action – First the formation of a business plan with operational and educational plans (such as curriculum, assessment procedure etc.).

Suitable Location – Boarding schools are usually located in remote places free from distractions, and any kind of pollution. The land size should be at least 12-15 acres.

Arrange for Funds – The capital requirement for would be close to 70 crores depending upon the place. Banks or other financial institutions provide loans to budding edu-preneurs.

Form a Committee – A Trust/Society is a compliance to be adhered to for starting any school. This Trust/Society must be registered under the Societies Registration Act.

Permissions – Necessary documents such as the No-Objection certificate (NOC), Trust / Society deed and other essential documents from the concerned authorities have to be procured as these are essential for the purchase of land, recognition of the school by the local government, as well as for affiliation purposes.

Infrastructure – CBSE has set norms with regards to the size of various rooms. Make sure that your boarding school has excellent interiors as well as exteriors. Most classrooms today are well-equipped with projectors & screens. The playground must provide for a variety of indoor and outdoor sports. Hostel facilities with hygienic canteens & restrooms etc. must be provided.

Affiliation – Applications for affiliation to CBSE or any other board, must be done within a specific time frame. CBSE is one of the most popular boards that offers an exclusive curriculum that is simple & easy.

Recruitment – The next step is, recruitment. Well qualified and devoted teaching staff with impeccable antecedents must be recruited.

Advertising – Designing of brochures and advertisements on TV, Radio, and Newspapers etc. must be planned and executed.